Even though the total number of troubled banks in Florida has fallen dramatically over the past two years, the Sunshine State still leads the nation in both the number and percentage of banks and thrifts operating under severe enforcement actions. The news was from a report released Friday by SNL Financial. Nationally, one in eight banks and thrifts are under severe enforcement action; in Florida it's more than one in three. In fact, nearly 36 percent of Florida's financial institutions are under severe regulatory actions. Full story at the Tampa Bay Times.

Poll: Quality family time trumps money

Most American workers, about 70 percent, say they would like to earn more money. But few would give up time with their family -- especially their kids -- even in exchange for a hefty raise, according to a new survey from New York Life. In fact, even the promise of a 50 percent pay jump can't persuade most Americans to give up time with their children and families. [Source: South Florida Sun-Sentinel]

IN CASE YOU MISSED ITFlorida Icon: Sam Gibbons

On Oct. 5, five days before he died, Sam Gibbons was interviewed by Florida Trend’s Art Levy. Gibbons, dealing with balance problems, sat in a wheelchair, but was otherwise strong and energetic during the nearly two-hour session.

He spoke about growing up in Tampa, his role in the 1944 D-Day invasion, his friendship with John Kennedy and his career in public service, which included 34 years in the U.S. Congress and 10 years in the Florida Legislature.

An accountant at a South Florida internet marketing firm thought he was going to a holiday lunch with co-workers. Instead, he got a brand new SUV, courtesy of his boss. BMI Elite CEO Brandon Rosen says Chris Ninos deserves the "special gift" because of his hard work and dedication. More from the AP and the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

Hispanic culture, populace explode in Southwest Florida

Maribel Sanchez couldn’t get pernil, arroz con gandules and plátanos in Fort Myers when she moved here from New York eight years ago. Now she has no problem finding that roast pork, rice with pigeon peas and plantains. She has seen Latin restaurants, markets and shops open their doors as the local Hispanic population has soared. [Source: Fort Myers News-Press]

What’s in a name? Potentially, a lot of money. That’s what Jason Sadler believes, and it’s the reason he is auctioning off his last name, at the aptly named website Buymylastname.com. Yes, that’s right. Sadler, the 30-year-old founder of Jacksonville-based Iwearyourshirt.com, is “subletting” his name to the highest bidder for a whole year.